Diabetes mellitus in the Jamaican elderly

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Epidemiology
• Gerontology

Background:

• Type II diabetes mellitus is a growing global health concern, particularly among aging populations.
• Understanding the prevalence and characteristics of diabetes in specific communities is crucial for targeted interventions.
• Jamaica, like many Caribbean nations, faces unique demographic and health challenges.

Purpose of the Study:

• To determine the prevalence of type II diabetes mellitus in older adults in Jamaica.
• To identify demographic and clinical characteristics associated with diabetes in this population.
• To assess the awareness and management of diabetes within the study group.

Main Methods:

• A community-based survey was conducted involving 1318 individuals aged 60 to 97 years.
• Diabetes diagnosis was confirmed through blood and urine tests.
• Data on demographics, comorbidities (hypertension), and treatment were collected through interviews.

Main Results:

• The prevalence of type II diabetes mellitus was 10.2%, with higher rates in females (12.6%) than males (7.8%).
• An additional 2.96% of participants were diagnosed with diabetes during the study.
• Among diagnosed diabetics, 60.25% had hypertension, 63.1% were on oral anti-diabetic medication, and 20.4% had the disease for over 20 years.
• Functional independence was high, with 89.5% of the total group and 88% of diabetics being functionally independent.

Conclusions:

• Type II diabetes mellitus is a significant health issue among older adults in Jamaica, with a notable proportion undiagnosed.
• The high comorbidity with hypertension and the long duration of disease in some individuals underscore the need for comprehensive diabetes care.
• Despite the disease burden, the study population maintained a high level of functional independence.